Strengthening Morale and Motivation in the Public Service in Turbulent Times

Abstract The public service in Canada has undergone major changes and experienced significant pressures in the last decade. These changes and pressures create conditions of uncertainty, and alongside workplace policies, arrangements, leadership, and culture, affect the morale of current public servants and future public service motivation. This issue requires immediate attention because the morale of the public service determines the performance and quality of service delivery to citizens, as well as making the public service a good place to work. This research note prescribes a pathway for reform: 1. Define problems of morale and motivation; 2. Create a time‐limited task force with the goal of creating a permanent entity to address motivation and morale; and 3. Collaborate with current and future public servants to provide professional development.